The Three Lions looked poised for a vital three points after a sublime Eric Dier free-kick, only for Russia to find a 92nd minute winner through Vasili Berezutski.
England was frustrated time and time again by Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev but finally broke the deadlock after Eric Dier’s rasping free-kick.
Russia’s pressing paid dividends in the 92nd minute, with a Berezutski tap-in salvaging a point for Russia.
Here are some of the major talking points to come out of the match:
England shock everyone by proving they are still England
Russia’s late goal extended England’s unwelcome record of never winning a European Championship opening match to nine games. The front line failed to fire, with numerous chances from Harry Kane, Adam Lallana and Raheem Sterling all failing to find the back of the net. A lacklustre showing by the Russian defence allowed England numerous clear-cut scoring opportunities and the way in which they squandered them is a worrying sign. The Three Lions are often stereotyped as the ‘underachievers’ of international football and anyone hoping that this match would shake off that tag would be left unconvinced. England must find a clinical edge for their upcoming match against Wales.
Russia’s defence continues to be a worry
There was a general consensus going into the tournament that the Russian defence was their biggest weakness and that was vindicated. Centre-backs Berezutski and Sergei Ignashevich lack pace and mobility and were exposed throughout the match by the likes Dele Alli and Raheem Sterling’s speed and trickery. Moreover, the distribution of the ball from the back was equally as poor with Russia continually clearing the ball long and gifting possession back to their opponents. They are extremely lucky to gain a point, but must place a strong emphasis on improving their defensive capabilities before matches against Wales and Slovakia.
Rooney impresses in the midfield
Versatility has become a pillar of Wayne Rooney’s game in the past two years since evolving into a midfield role. The Manchester United attacker showed a great deal of maturity in his disciplined performance from midfield. The English captain was essential to many of England’s attacks, crafting play seemingly out of nothing and providing timely through balls that failed to be converted. Many critics were skeptical about Rooney’s ability to play in the midfield but the 30-year-old showed a wealth of experience as he pulled the strings in the middle of the park. While Rooney even managed to get a few shots off himself, he was even better in that dynamic playmaker role, which is a very encouraging sign for English manager Roy Hodgson.
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